Get the Most Out of Your Auger Tool Rental with Careful Preparation

Though it is still back-breaking work, digging post holes with a power auger goes much faster than the standard shovel method. However, before you go pick up your auger rental, there are some things you need to do to prepare.

The first thing you need to do is enlist the help of a friend. Most auger rentals must be operated by two people. The auger drills into the earth and sends the dirt up with each revolution. The torque required to push the drill into the earth must be countered by the operators. The larger the drill size, the stronger the torque – hence the need for two bodies.

The next thing you need to do is contact your utility companies to find out if there are any underground utility lines on your property. If there are, then you need to have someone come out and mark their locations so that you do not hit them during your drilling process. Hitting utility lines could serious injury.

After the location of the utility lines has been clearly determined, you need to layout your project. Decide on the spacing and location of each hole, and mark the center with a stake. Then dig a pilot hole in each location with a spade or shovel. The pilot hole creates stability for starting the auger.

Finally, determine the size of the drill that you need. This will depend on the type of posts you are using. Holes for steel posts can be dug with a 6-inch drill, while 4×4 wood posts require an 8-inch drill. If any of these require concrete then you will need a larger hole. Using a 12-inch drill will allow you more space to place your post exactly where you want it.

Posthole auger rental prices are around $50 a day. Depending on your stamina and the location of your holes, you could dig as many as 30 holes in a day, making the auger rental well worth the investment.

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Yard Butler REA-4 Roto Auger 18-Inch Long 1-1/4-Inch Diameter

Roto planter digs holes for bulb planting, tree aeration, electrical wiring, or to install irrigation pipe or PVC. For use in a 3 8″ or larger electric or cordless drill. No. RT 1: Bulb planter drills holes up to 7″ deep and 1 3 4″ in diameter No. RP 3: B